Allentown bishop comments on Pope Emeritus Benedict’s passing
KAYLEE LINDENMUTH / SHENANDOAH SENTINEL FILE - Diocese of Allentown Bishop Alfred Schlert speaks at Father Ciszek Day in Shenandoah in 2018.
ALLENTOWN, Lehigh County – The Bishop of the Catholic Church’s Diocese of Allentown, which Shenandoah is part of, issued a statement today on the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
“Together with Catholics and all men and women of good will, the priests, deacons, religious men and women, seminarians, and the lay faithful of our Diocese mourn the loss of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI,” said Bishop Alfred Schlert, in commenting on the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who died Dec. 31 in Rome. “He was a faithful son of the Church, and he used his considerable spiritual and intellectual gifts in service of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was a champion of clarity regarding the constant teachings of the Church.
“Like many who met him, I found him to be a gentle, affable shepherd who truly cared for the person standing before him,” Schlert added. “May Pope Emeritus Benedict receive the reward of the good and faithful servant, as our prayers accompany his soul to Eternal Life.”
A special Diocesan Memorial Mass for the Pope Emeritus will be scheduled at the Cathedral of St. Catharine of Siena in Allentown. Schlert will be the main celebrant and homilist.
The Diocese said details will be announced when they are available.
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